Cortical expression of prolactin (PRL), growth hormone (GH) and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) is not increased in experimental traumatic brain injury

Background Cerebral cortical expression of the pituitary hormones prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) have reported in ischemic damage. Both hormones may be involved in vascular tone regulation and angiogenesis, and growth hormone is thought to be neuroprotective while prolactin stimulates astrogliosis. Methods We examined expression of prolactin, growth hormone and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) using tissue microarray technology in the controlled cortical impact model of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Findings No increased expression of these hormones was seen. Conclusions Unlike ischemia, traumatic brain injury does not result in up-regulation of the pituitary hormones PRL and GH in cerebral cortex.